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Carnival #1
Carnival
Charlie should be packing her bags for college, but the life ahead of her isn’t one she’s certain she wants. Maybe that’s what led her to sleep with a perfect stranger at the county fair. Finding out he was a carnie was like winning the bonus round of the world’s worst game.
Blue grew up in the carnival, never staying anywhere long enough to call home. He never thought of himself as the type to seduce a local, let alone fall in love with one, but his impulsiveness got the better of him this time. He should go where the carnival takes him, but for the first time he’s not sure if he wants to follow.
When he makes the decision to stick around, Charlie eagerly follows him down the rabbit hole; into a world with no regard for consequences or regret. Most of all, he shows her that home isn’t a place, it’s a feeling they can create and share. For a price. Because the higher the roller coaster goes, the faster it all comes crashing down.
Blue grew up in the carnival, never staying anywhere long enough to call home. He never thought of himself as the type to seduce a local, let alone fall in love with one, but his impulsiveness got the better of him this time. He should go where the carnival takes him, but for the first time he’s not sure if he wants to follow.
When he makes the decision to stick around, Charlie eagerly follows him down the rabbit hole; into a world with no regard for consequences or regret. Most of all, he shows her that home isn’t a place, it’s a feeling they can create and share. For a price. Because the higher the roller coaster goes, the faster it all comes crashing down.
316 pages, Paperback
First published May 27, 2014
16 people are currently reading
1168 people want to read
About the author
K.B. Nelson
18 books87 followersI grew up on a farm in Ohio, but that's not very interesting, is it? When I'm not writing you can find me doing one of two things; getting lost on highways or getting lost in the lives of fictional characters. If my heart had two feet, one foot would be in romance and the other solidly in geekdom. I hope you'll all follow me on my journey through this carnival they call life.I promise there will be a happy ending.
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July 22, 2014DNF at 20%
Big thanks to Patchwork Press and Netgalley for an ARC copy for review.
When I first saw the cover for this book it was very eye catching. I was definitely intrigued, but unfortunately it just wasn't what I expected. I just didn't care for the main character, Charlie. Some of the things she said and did had me going..
Not to mention the inappropriate thoughts the best friend had for Charlie's ex-boyfriend and her father. And Charlie didn't seem to mind. Hmm..
Sorry, but this just wasn't for me.
Big thanks to Patchwork Press and Netgalley for an ARC copy for review.
When I first saw the cover for this book it was very eye catching. I was definitely intrigued, but unfortunately it just wasn't what I expected. I just didn't care for the main character, Charlie. Some of the things she said and did had me going..
Not to mention the inappropriate thoughts the best friend had for Charlie's ex-boyfriend and her father. And Charlie didn't seem to mind. Hmm..
Sorry, but this just wasn't for me.
August 12, 2014
The blurb for Carnival made it sound very good, and coupled with a gorgeous cover, I thought I was gonna love it. And I did in the beginning. I liked the attitude Charlie had, she seemed to have a unique voice to her. And she wasn’t a virgin! And she meets a hot carnie named Blue.
They hook up later on in the night, and it’s quite a steamy scene which was nice! I really liked Blue. He seemed like he could be quite the character. Ultimately I was a bit disappointed by him overall, he was very underwhelming. I expected a bit more about his history to be revealed, I wanted to know more about his life as a carnie, and what trouble he had to go through by living such a life. Instead we’re barely told anything about him. Charlie and Blue just exist together.
I really liked Blue in the beginning, he seemed really interesting, and he genuinely had feelings for Charlie, wanted to leave his life at the carnival behind to start a normal life. Which was great! And I wished it had stayed that way. But there’s some convoluted plot about Blue’s former life in the carnival that just didn’t make much sense to me. Towards the end some stuff happens that just seems out of the blue. I’m sitting there glaring at my kindle, quite confused as to what is going on, and who these people are in the story.
The more I read the more angry I got at this book, the characters and the decisions they were making were really something… Especially the drug use. I almost stopped reading right then and there. It was very off-putting that Charlie had no problems taking Molly, and pretty much got addicted to it. It made my stomach drop, not a pleasant feeling. She went from this sweet girl with a bit of an attitude to someone that did quite a lot of drugs. She never even seemed the type to do them! Then suddenly when she sees Blue high as a kite she’s decides she wants to do them.
There’s a plot twist in the middle of the book that just came out of no where! I side-eyed my Kindle because it was so bizarre. And to make matters worse I felt no emotion in the scenes that followed, especially from Charlie! For some random reason she decided to take a Xanax to cope with the pain.
The last half of the book was really confusing, Blue’s past catches up to him, but it didn’t make much sense to me. Some guy is suddenly kidnapping and trying to kill Blue and Charlie, we’re given a reason but it doesn’t all flow together. That’s the best way I can describe it. Not everything flows very well, the action and stuff that happens in this part of the story is just confusing, and disjointed.
The last 10% or so of the book we get a sudden POV change, switching between Charlie and Blue. The writing style changes too, and it was very jarring as it didn’t flow with the rest of the book.
Overall I’m very disappointed with this book, it was quite a mess. It started out good, but just went downhill so fast! Character constancy issues as well as the choices they made just made this book not likable for me.
They hook up later on in the night, and it’s quite a steamy scene which was nice! I really liked Blue. He seemed like he could be quite the character. Ultimately I was a bit disappointed by him overall, he was very underwhelming. I expected a bit more about his history to be revealed, I wanted to know more about his life as a carnie, and what trouble he had to go through by living such a life. Instead we’re barely told anything about him. Charlie and Blue just exist together.
I really liked Blue in the beginning, he seemed really interesting, and he genuinely had feelings for Charlie, wanted to leave his life at the carnival behind to start a normal life. Which was great! And I wished it had stayed that way. But there’s some convoluted plot about Blue’s former life in the carnival that just didn’t make much sense to me. Towards the end some stuff happens that just seems out of the blue. I’m sitting there glaring at my kindle, quite confused as to what is going on, and who these people are in the story.
The more I read the more angry I got at this book, the characters and the decisions they were making were really something… Especially the drug use. I almost stopped reading right then and there. It was very off-putting that Charlie had no problems taking Molly, and pretty much got addicted to it. It made my stomach drop, not a pleasant feeling. She went from this sweet girl with a bit of an attitude to someone that did quite a lot of drugs. She never even seemed the type to do them! Then suddenly when she sees Blue high as a kite she’s decides she wants to do them.
There’s a plot twist in the middle of the book that just came out of no where! I side-eyed my Kindle because it was so bizarre. And to make matters worse I felt no emotion in the scenes that followed, especially from Charlie! For some random reason she decided to take a Xanax to cope with the pain.
The last half of the book was really confusing, Blue’s past catches up to him, but it didn’t make much sense to me. Some guy is suddenly kidnapping and trying to kill Blue and Charlie, we’re given a reason but it doesn’t all flow together. That’s the best way I can describe it. Not everything flows very well, the action and stuff that happens in this part of the story is just confusing, and disjointed.
The last 10% or so of the book we get a sudden POV change, switching between Charlie and Blue. The writing style changes too, and it was very jarring as it didn’t flow with the rest of the book.
Overall I’m very disappointed with this book, it was quite a mess. It started out good, but just went downhill so fast! Character constancy issues as well as the choices they made just made this book not likable for me.
July 4, 2014
Wow! Amazing book it had me from lusty in love to confused to a mess of tears . It really does have everything a good book should have When i began to read this book , i totally fell in love with all the character, especially our hottie badass BLUE!! I loved him ,totally and utterly fell for him just as our girl Charlie did ,he was hot with attitude and most importantly,he was faithfully in love with Charlie , all his cheesiness had me with a glued smile on my face he was adorable.
" i dont think i will ever be able to quit you"
"You have made me wait, he says with a rough smile and ive been patient,but i need to hear two words before we begin"
"Its you that always brings me back to earth.like your the sun and am the moon"
" your love is my drug"
Thats some Blue for you!!
I thought Charlie was so carefree ,and fun she was so in love with blue that he could do no wrong in her eyes,and that was kinda what appealed to me the most in the book there really wasn't no back and forth with them ,even with the problems they went through they stuck together and i loved that !
I pretty much loved everything of the book , it didn't have a dull moment ! My only issue and maybe that makes me some uptight was the drug use ,that was kinda of like a lot i think .but very entertaining and if there is a next book i am so reading it ,cant get enough of BLUE!!!
Thank you K.B ;)
" i dont think i will ever be able to quit you"
"You have made me wait, he says with a rough smile and ive been patient,but i need to hear two words before we begin"
"Its you that always brings me back to earth.like your the sun and am the moon"
" your love is my drug"
Thats some Blue for you!!
I thought Charlie was so carefree ,and fun she was so in love with blue that he could do no wrong in her eyes,and that was kinda what appealed to me the most in the book there really wasn't no back and forth with them ,even with the problems they went through they stuck together and i loved that !
I pretty much loved everything of the book , it didn't have a dull moment ! My only issue and maybe that makes me some uptight was the drug use ,that was kinda of like a lot i think .but very entertaining and if there is a next book i am so reading it ,cant get enough of BLUE!!!
Thank you K.B ;)
April 27, 2017
Charlie has been left behind because all her friends have left for college or are packing for it. So, Charlie decides to go to the local carnival. Alone, embarrassingly for her! There she meets Blue and they're instantly attracted to each other. Their love begins...
Blue isn't perfect. He's been in trouble. He's done things many wouldn't approve of. He's got issues with his father. But Charlie, sees that his fellow carnies he's known his entire life, are his family. They know he's a good guy. Everyone encourages Charlie to look past his 'imperfections' and let love happen. Even though they have a bit of a roller coaster relationship she ends up having the time of her life and falling in love.
I immediately loved Blue. He was so fun and so sweet to Charlie. If I'd have met him, I never would've hesitated! Sometimes Charlie drove me crazy because I felt she debated every single decision BUT then she always chose right! At least in my opinion! I completely fell in love with these characters! And remember, home isn't a place, it's where you find love.
4 Blue/Pink Stars! K.B. thanks for this amazing story! I already can't wait for book #2!!!
Blue isn't perfect. He's been in trouble. He's done things many wouldn't approve of. He's got issues with his father. But Charlie, sees that his fellow carnies he's known his entire life, are his family. They know he's a good guy. Everyone encourages Charlie to look past his 'imperfections' and let love happen. Even though they have a bit of a roller coaster relationship she ends up having the time of her life and falling in love.
I immediately loved Blue. He was so fun and so sweet to Charlie. If I'd have met him, I never would've hesitated! Sometimes Charlie drove me crazy because I felt she debated every single decision BUT then she always chose right! At least in my opinion! I completely fell in love with these characters! And remember, home isn't a place, it's where you find love.
4 Blue/Pink Stars! K.B. thanks for this amazing story! I already can't wait for book #2!!!
November 19, 2014
Hello everyone, I'm K.B. Nelson and I wrote Carnival. I would be hesitant to say that writing Carnival was the greatest experience of my life... if it wasn't the truth. The real truth, the whole truth, nothing but the truth is that it truly was. It was a wonderful journey from the first words to the closing sentence. Life really is just like a carnival ride and beginning today, July 7th 2014, this story is no longer mine any longer. It is yours as well, and I hope that everyone enjoys Carnival as much as I loved writing it.
This was the story that I wanted (and needed) to tell for my first foray into fiction. I love these characters like a parent loves their own children. Carnival is the first book set in their world, and there are many books to follow. I can't wait to share the rest of their stories with you.
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This was the story that I wanted (and needed) to tell for my first foray into fiction. I love these characters like a parent loves their own children. Carnival is the first book set in their world, and there are many books to follow. I can't wait to share the rest of their stories with you.
Buy links
Kindle
Nook
Kobo
Paperback
January 31, 2021
2.5 Stars
Unfortunately this book was a big NO for me. From the out of control characters to the choppy plot it really did read like a wonky wooden roller coaster. The heroine lives in a small town and just recently broke up with her boyfriend, she says because she’s going off to college but really she’s decided not to. For whatever reason she winds up at the fair solo where she meets Blue and downward spirals from there. The two have a ridiculously fast relationship and it’s clear by the immaturity of them both that they have much growing to do. Sadly much of the heroes past comes knocking and the heroine gets swept up in it. I hated how drug crazy these two were, it was a train wreck watching them together and they really left a bad taste in my mouth. At the end of the book the two are even fugitives and it seems that’s just how their life will be. I’m just left wondering wtf did I read? It’s like a redneck stereotype wrapped up in a book and I was not impressed. I mean does this sound-healthy to you? ”There are only three things that make me feel alive anymore-sex, molly, and him.” At this point even if is there another book I’m going to steer clear of it.
Unfortunately this book was a big NO for me. From the out of control characters to the choppy plot it really did read like a wonky wooden roller coaster. The heroine lives in a small town and just recently broke up with her boyfriend, she says because she’s going off to college but really she’s decided not to. For whatever reason she winds up at the fair solo where she meets Blue and downward spirals from there. The two have a ridiculously fast relationship and it’s clear by the immaturity of them both that they have much growing to do. Sadly much of the heroes past comes knocking and the heroine gets swept up in it. I hated how drug crazy these two were, it was a train wreck watching them together and they really left a bad taste in my mouth. At the end of the book the two are even fugitives and it seems that’s just how their life will be. I’m just left wondering wtf did I read? It’s like a redneck stereotype wrapped up in a book and I was not impressed. I mean does this sound-healthy to you? ”There are only three things that make me feel alive anymore-sex, molly, and him.” At this point even if is there another book I’m going to steer clear of it.
June 29, 2014
Warning contains spoilers!!
Charlie is destined to leave for collage. Rooming with her best friend she has already broken it off with her childhood sweetheart so she is able to live her life away from her small town. Second thoughts about moving away consume her. After her parents divorced and she was left with a heartbroken mother to care for and the feeling of her life not going the way she initially thought it should, she finally decides moving to collage is no longer in her plans. Now she just has to tell everyone. Going to a carnival by herself just to get away she has no idea her life is about to change in more ways than she ever though possible.
Blue is a carnie born and bread. Always travelling, the people, the trouble ... not as fulfilling as he once thought. Until Lakeview and Charlie. Meeting Charlie was like finding home and for the first time Blue wants to leave the carnival and settle down. So he does just that. He falls head over heels for his crazy ass beautiful girl and will do anything for her. But Blue is hiding a dark and dangerous past, one that he knows Charlie suspects and so he tries to hide it from her until the past finds him.
With Charlies life crumbling around her and Blues past catching up to him will they decide their love and way of life is enough for them to run from all the problems or will it prove a life neither dreamed of for the other?
This book has had a few great reviews and I agree the love Blue has for Charlie is deep. For me though I got to be honest and say this book really wasn't for me. First off I am a big fan of the Breakneck series which also features drug use and criminal activity but the way this book is written just doesn't connect with me at all. I understand how much passion and hard work an author goes through but I have to be brutally honest and in no way mean to offend said author. I received this title in exchange for an honest review so here goes ...
I didn't like Charlie at all. I just couldn't connect with her. Her thought process and reasoning for her actions just confused me through the entire book. We are taken on a journey where we see Blue getting Charlie addicted to drugs and putting her life in danger forcing her to run from her family and the only life she's ever known. I didn't like the way the drug use was portrayed in the story and even though I have read many books with drug abuse involved, for me this book just didn't quite justify the reasoning or actions of the two leads. The book left me confused and disappointed. As I finished the last chapter I sat there and asked myself WTF? I didn't really like the plot and didn't connect with the characters. Sorry but really just not for me :(
Charlie is destined to leave for collage. Rooming with her best friend she has already broken it off with her childhood sweetheart so she is able to live her life away from her small town. Second thoughts about moving away consume her. After her parents divorced and she was left with a heartbroken mother to care for and the feeling of her life not going the way she initially thought it should, she finally decides moving to collage is no longer in her plans. Now she just has to tell everyone. Going to a carnival by herself just to get away she has no idea her life is about to change in more ways than she ever though possible.
Blue is a carnie born and bread. Always travelling, the people, the trouble ... not as fulfilling as he once thought. Until Lakeview and Charlie. Meeting Charlie was like finding home and for the first time Blue wants to leave the carnival and settle down. So he does just that. He falls head over heels for his crazy ass beautiful girl and will do anything for her. But Blue is hiding a dark and dangerous past, one that he knows Charlie suspects and so he tries to hide it from her until the past finds him.
With Charlies life crumbling around her and Blues past catching up to him will they decide their love and way of life is enough for them to run from all the problems or will it prove a life neither dreamed of for the other?
This book has had a few great reviews and I agree the love Blue has for Charlie is deep. For me though I got to be honest and say this book really wasn't for me. First off I am a big fan of the Breakneck series which also features drug use and criminal activity but the way this book is written just doesn't connect with me at all. I understand how much passion and hard work an author goes through but I have to be brutally honest and in no way mean to offend said author. I received this title in exchange for an honest review so here goes ...
I didn't like Charlie at all. I just couldn't connect with her. Her thought process and reasoning for her actions just confused me through the entire book. We are taken on a journey where we see Blue getting Charlie addicted to drugs and putting her life in danger forcing her to run from her family and the only life she's ever known. I didn't like the way the drug use was portrayed in the story and even though I have read many books with drug abuse involved, for me this book just didn't quite justify the reasoning or actions of the two leads. The book left me confused and disappointed. As I finished the last chapter I sat there and asked myself WTF? I didn't really like the plot and didn't connect with the characters. Sorry but really just not for me :(
January 31, 2021
Well this was crazy and wild but it actually worked for me. I liked Blue and even his troubled life. I think Charlie went of the rails but I don't think that was all Blue's fault. I liked the story and how it all fell apart in the end. It gave me a type of Bonnie and Clyde type of feel.
July 6, 2014
Oh. My. Gawd.
My heart just stopped. I have never and I mean ever had a read that I felt the need to get up and pace through. But this book shot me out of my seat and I paced like a mad woman! I am almost certain it was a sight to behold.
Kindle in one hand and alternating between tugging at my hair, tapping my thigh and biting my nails with the other. Wide eyes and gasps turning the heads of my family.
Seriously, I feel like I need to come down, crash hard and say hello to the book hangover that is so looming over me now.
K.B. Nelson just took my breath away and stole my fiction loving heart. I am fangirling like a crazy person as she has pretty much skyrocketed to the top ten in my favorite authors list. I am a bit beside myself and ever so eager as to when I can beg and plead, crawling if need be, for an ARC of book 2 when it becomes available.
This story... wow, just wow. There is so much substance to it that it will leave your head swimming. There is so much there so I am just gonna break it down for you. Sam Smith's Stay With Me was playing in my mind for parts of this read.
Let's start with just the cover of this book. Eye catching and beautiful isn't it? To me before reading it screamed MUST READ and the internal substance is no let down, it delivers. There is a real balance between Swoon Worthiness and Story Substance. I have a crazy feeling my dreams will be of carnival rides, blue eyes and maybe even gunshots...
Now onto the characters. This cast of characters has stolen my heart. I love the MC, Charlie is a girl who has no idea what she wants out of life. Ditching college to take care of her freshly divorced and thoroughly depressed mom seems like an excuse to find her own way to me. Since her father ditched her and her mom he holds a cold spot in Charlie's heart. Her bestest friend, Summer is not too happy that Charlie is ditching her but she is a good enough friend to be supportive no matter what. I love Summer and the entire circle of friends that surround Charlie including her hot country boy ex, Dylan. Then enter the guy who sorta steals the show with steely blue eyes that pierce Charlie's soul.
Blue, yes his name is Blue,(#TeamBlue #NACrushTourney15 HeeHee! There's my nomination for 2015!), Oh holy hello kitty, he is magnificent. Everything about him is fantastic even the gritty disturbing things. I was floored by so much in this read. It was... epic. I did worry about Charlie but she is a big girl and everyone makes choices right or wrong and she acknowledges and owns them all. I think that may be a part of why I love her as an MC so much.
The storyline. This story moves at a great pace and believe me when I say that you need to take time out from everything and make time to read because you are not going to want to put this one down.
The plot is great, girl meets boy, boy is hot, sparks fly, fireworks. Um yeah some thing like that. Add mystery, love, danger, friendship, craziness, tragedy, action and a maniac and voila, an AMAZING read! The plot twists are heart stopping and will bring you to the edge and back again.
Would I read this again? You bet your sweet patootie I would! Five stars isn't enough but hell if it's not all there is to give!
If you read NA, you NEED to read this book! I promise you that it will not in any way disappoint!
I received an ARC of Carnival from the author via YA & NA Fanatics Group here on Goodreads.
My heart just stopped. I have never and I mean ever had a read that I felt the need to get up and pace through. But this book shot me out of my seat and I paced like a mad woman! I am almost certain it was a sight to behold.
Kindle in one hand and alternating between tugging at my hair, tapping my thigh and biting my nails with the other. Wide eyes and gasps turning the heads of my family.
Seriously, I feel like I need to come down, crash hard and say hello to the book hangover that is so looming over me now.
K.B. Nelson just took my breath away and stole my fiction loving heart. I am fangirling like a crazy person as she has pretty much skyrocketed to the top ten in my favorite authors list. I am a bit beside myself and ever so eager as to when I can beg and plead, crawling if need be, for an ARC of book 2 when it becomes available.
This story... wow, just wow. There is so much substance to it that it will leave your head swimming. There is so much there so I am just gonna break it down for you. Sam Smith's Stay With Me was playing in my mind for parts of this read.
Let's start with just the cover of this book. Eye catching and beautiful isn't it? To me before reading it screamed MUST READ and the internal substance is no let down, it delivers. There is a real balance between Swoon Worthiness and Story Substance. I have a crazy feeling my dreams will be of carnival rides, blue eyes and maybe even gunshots...
Now onto the characters. This cast of characters has stolen my heart. I love the MC, Charlie is a girl who has no idea what she wants out of life. Ditching college to take care of her freshly divorced and thoroughly depressed mom seems like an excuse to find her own way to me. Since her father ditched her and her mom he holds a cold spot in Charlie's heart. Her bestest friend, Summer is not too happy that Charlie is ditching her but she is a good enough friend to be supportive no matter what. I love Summer and the entire circle of friends that surround Charlie including her hot country boy ex, Dylan. Then enter the guy who sorta steals the show with steely blue eyes that pierce Charlie's soul.
Blue, yes his name is Blue,(#TeamBlue #NACrushTourney15 HeeHee! There's my nomination for 2015!), Oh holy hello kitty, he is magnificent. Everything about him is fantastic even the gritty disturbing things. I was floored by so much in this read. It was... epic. I did worry about Charlie but she is a big girl and everyone makes choices right or wrong and she acknowledges and owns them all. I think that may be a part of why I love her as an MC so much.
The storyline. This story moves at a great pace and believe me when I say that you need to take time out from everything and make time to read because you are not going to want to put this one down.
The plot is great, girl meets boy, boy is hot, sparks fly, fireworks. Um yeah some thing like that. Add mystery, love, danger, friendship, craziness, tragedy, action and a maniac and voila, an AMAZING read! The plot twists are heart stopping and will bring you to the edge and back again.
Would I read this again? You bet your sweet patootie I would! Five stars isn't enough but hell if it's not all there is to give!
If you read NA, you NEED to read this book! I promise you that it will not in any way disappoint!
I received an ARC of Carnival from the author via YA & NA Fanatics Group here on Goodreads.
July 16, 2014
I was provided with a copy of this book from netgalley, and in exchange here is my honest review.....
Honestly? I don't want to write this review. OK, can I just start off saying that my rating mostly reflects my expectations (which were in the wrong galaxy) and my personal tastes? It's not like it was a badly written book. I didn't always like the writing style (occasionally it got a bit flowery for me, with lots of metaphors...it's just not my thing). There were the occasional editing mistakes, but all in all it wasn't that. My problem is that I expected the typical NA. And while it's super duper nice to be surprised with something new and refreshing -- well, when it's unfortunately not to your taste, then it's a bad surprise. I guess the synopsis just didn't clue me in AT ALL. Maybe pay more attention to this line: "Because the higher the roller coaster goes, the faster it all comes crashing down."
OK, first off -- b/c of the synopsis, I totally thought this was going to be a dual POV book. And eventually in the last 15% you do get some Blue POV, but it's mostly Charlie. And Charlie? Well, she's *not* my girl. It was nice to have a different type of protagonist, but she's the kind of girl I just don't get, and so it's kind of hard to empathize you know? She had kind of a "mean girl" streak, mixed in with a sweet girl, and I loved the sweet girl. But the meaner, bitchier her? Not quite as much.
I don't really know what else to say. It kind of turned into what I imagine the movie Natural Born Killers to be like (having NOT actually seen that movie). I had to ask my husband what the drug molly was (which he said was meth, and I thought like Crystal Meth, but having just googled to verify, it's apparently MDMA/Ecstasy). So yeah, it kind of glorified this bizarre life of Blue's b/c of love. Nevermind, I can't explain it. Just, if you think it's going to be a typical NA, go in prepared to be surprised. It wasn't to my tastes, but I'm hardly a spokesperson for the average reader.
I did enjoy bits and pieces here and there....I enjoyed the snippets about her friendships with Tyson, Joey, Summer and Dylan, and truthfully would have liked to read more of it. I was left a bit confused over her huge distaste for her Dad (I got some distaste, but I kept feeling like I was missing something). I was left a bit confused about what all went down with Blue, but that could be just me having a thick skull.
OK, I'm just going to stop. Basically it wasn't a bad book, but it did NOT work for me at all.
Honestly? I don't want to write this review. OK, can I just start off saying that my rating mostly reflects my expectations (which were in the wrong galaxy) and my personal tastes? It's not like it was a badly written book. I didn't always like the writing style (occasionally it got a bit flowery for me, with lots of metaphors...it's just not my thing). There were the occasional editing mistakes, but all in all it wasn't that. My problem is that I expected the typical NA. And while it's super duper nice to be surprised with something new and refreshing -- well, when it's unfortunately not to your taste, then it's a bad surprise. I guess the synopsis just didn't clue me in AT ALL. Maybe pay more attention to this line: "Because the higher the roller coaster goes, the faster it all comes crashing down."
OK, first off -- b/c of the synopsis, I totally thought this was going to be a dual POV book. And eventually in the last 15% you do get some Blue POV, but it's mostly Charlie. And Charlie? Well, she's *not* my girl. It was nice to have a different type of protagonist, but she's the kind of girl I just don't get, and so it's kind of hard to empathize you know? She had kind of a "mean girl" streak, mixed in with a sweet girl, and I loved the sweet girl. But the meaner, bitchier her? Not quite as much.
I don't really know what else to say. It kind of turned into what I imagine the movie Natural Born Killers to be like (having NOT actually seen that movie). I had to ask my husband what the drug molly was (which he said was meth, and I thought like Crystal Meth, but having just googled to verify, it's apparently MDMA/Ecstasy). So yeah, it kind of glorified this bizarre life of Blue's b/c of love. Nevermind, I can't explain it. Just, if you think it's going to be a typical NA, go in prepared to be surprised. It wasn't to my tastes, but I'm hardly a spokesperson for the average reader.
I did enjoy bits and pieces here and there....I enjoyed the snippets about her friendships with Tyson, Joey, Summer and Dylan, and truthfully would have liked to read more of it. I was left a bit confused over her huge distaste for her Dad (I got some distaste, but I kept feeling like I was missing something). I was left a bit confused about what all went down with Blue, but that could be just me having a thick skull.
OK, I'm just going to stop. Basically it wasn't a bad book, but it did NOT work for me at all.
September 30, 2014
*ARC provided by author via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
So you know that saying about not judging a book by it's cover? It is true. This book was judged based on the cover. In my defense, the cover is pretty cool with the bit of bokeh effect, and the faded image of the carnival, right? Right? Maybe not. So then I read the description, and it also looked decent. And I decided, why not? And....I shouldn't have done it. The book started off pretty good, meaningless hookup with a hot carnie (this should have been the first warning bell), followed by a night of crazy teenage partying (this should have been the second warning bell, but I did not listen). I guess I do know people who behave like this, but they drive me nuts in real life, so no surprise they drove me nuts in the book.
Between all of the above mentioned situations, and being a rude bitch to her ex, rolling with a drug dealer, staying at home instead of leaving for college, even though she has a very weak reason for doing so, I did not care for Charlie, our female lead character. Charlie falls for Blue (our male lead), who is many things, but I do have to admit he is sweet, not the most upstanding citizen, but he does care for Charlie, and wants her to be happy in life.
Blue has gone and traveled much more than Charlie, who lives in a small town. Now, I was born and raised in a small town, and I know they are boring, but not boring enough to do many of the things done in this book. Blue wants to protect Charlie, and does a pretty decent job. Deep down they do care for each other, it just shows differently.
Overall, this book was ok, and I use that term loosely. The beginning was great, then progressively got worse. Which could be why I do not like it. It is hard to remember the good parts. I really liked Charlie's ex, he was a good guy, and would have taken care of Charlie until they died. The plot had a few holes, and the story skipped around a bit. But, let's be honest here, the depiction of teenagers and college kids in the book was pretty dead on. To me this wasn't funny, it was sad, but true.
I may give this author another chance, the whole falling in love with a carnie and carnival aspect was original, and I liked that, but could have been done a bit better.
To read the full review, check it out at:
http://bookaholicraves.blogspot.com/
So you know that saying about not judging a book by it's cover? It is true. This book was judged based on the cover. In my defense, the cover is pretty cool with the bit of bokeh effect, and the faded image of the carnival, right? Right? Maybe not. So then I read the description, and it also looked decent. And I decided, why not? And....I shouldn't have done it. The book started off pretty good, meaningless hookup with a hot carnie (this should have been the first warning bell), followed by a night of crazy teenage partying (this should have been the second warning bell, but I did not listen). I guess I do know people who behave like this, but they drive me nuts in real life, so no surprise they drove me nuts in the book.
Between all of the above mentioned situations, and being a rude bitch to her ex, rolling with a drug dealer, staying at home instead of leaving for college, even though she has a very weak reason for doing so, I did not care for Charlie, our female lead character. Charlie falls for Blue (our male lead), who is many things, but I do have to admit he is sweet, not the most upstanding citizen, but he does care for Charlie, and wants her to be happy in life.
Blue has gone and traveled much more than Charlie, who lives in a small town. Now, I was born and raised in a small town, and I know they are boring, but not boring enough to do many of the things done in this book. Blue wants to protect Charlie, and does a pretty decent job. Deep down they do care for each other, it just shows differently.
Overall, this book was ok, and I use that term loosely. The beginning was great, then progressively got worse. Which could be why I do not like it. It is hard to remember the good parts. I really liked Charlie's ex, he was a good guy, and would have taken care of Charlie until they died. The plot had a few holes, and the story skipped around a bit. But, let's be honest here, the depiction of teenagers and college kids in the book was pretty dead on. To me this wasn't funny, it was sad, but true.
I may give this author another chance, the whole falling in love with a carnie and carnival aspect was original, and I liked that, but could have been done a bit better.
To read the full review, check it out at:
http://bookaholicraves.blogspot.com/
September 9, 2014
Before I begin, I just want to say ‘Thank you!’ to K.B. Nelson for giving me the opportunity to read and review this amazing story!
First off, just look at the cover – so pretty, almost whimsical. You might think you are about to embark on a truly magical love story. But although this is a love story – it is one that will evoke a true vortex of emotions. Yes, it does start off with girl meets boy and instant attraction occurs, but that’s where this roller coaster ride gets bumpy and has all the twists and turns that make for a truly gripping love story.
I instantly liked Charlie. She’s sharp, witty, sarcastic and a true smart-ass. After graduating high school you get the sense that she really does not have a direction. Although she is putting college on hold so she can look after her recently divorced mother, you get the feeling that she does not know what she wants from life right now. And then there is Blue. Sexy as all get out, you just get the feeling that there’s a story behind this carnie – some mystery that begs to be unraveled, and you would be correct in that thinking. Charlie and Blue together – outright EXPLOSIVE! The chemistry between the two is over-the-top HOT. Warning bells go off however and despite what Charlie learns, she dives head first into this relationship despite Blue’s troublesome and turbulent life.
The funny thing about love – it just happens, no matter what the person’s past was like or what they may be hiding – love will find a way to ignite and grow. Charlie and Blue don’t care what other people think nor do they think about the consequences – their heart takes over and nothing else matters. Yes, this is what this story is about and once you start reading, I can guarantee you will not stop until the very last word of this gripping, heart-pounding and emotional story is read.
I truly loved Carnival and can’t wait for the next installment of this highly addictive series written by this amazing author!
- See more at: The Avid Book Collector
First off, just look at the cover – so pretty, almost whimsical. You might think you are about to embark on a truly magical love story. But although this is a love story – it is one that will evoke a true vortex of emotions. Yes, it does start off with girl meets boy and instant attraction occurs, but that’s where this roller coaster ride gets bumpy and has all the twists and turns that make for a truly gripping love story.
I instantly liked Charlie. She’s sharp, witty, sarcastic and a true smart-ass. After graduating high school you get the sense that she really does not have a direction. Although she is putting college on hold so she can look after her recently divorced mother, you get the feeling that she does not know what she wants from life right now. And then there is Blue. Sexy as all get out, you just get the feeling that there’s a story behind this carnie – some mystery that begs to be unraveled, and you would be correct in that thinking. Charlie and Blue together – outright EXPLOSIVE! The chemistry between the two is over-the-top HOT. Warning bells go off however and despite what Charlie learns, she dives head first into this relationship despite Blue’s troublesome and turbulent life.
The funny thing about love – it just happens, no matter what the person’s past was like or what they may be hiding – love will find a way to ignite and grow. Charlie and Blue don’t care what other people think nor do they think about the consequences – their heart takes over and nothing else matters. Yes, this is what this story is about and once you start reading, I can guarantee you will not stop until the very last word of this gripping, heart-pounding and emotional story is read.
I truly loved Carnival and can’t wait for the next installment of this highly addictive series written by this amazing author!
- See more at: The Avid Book Collector
July 30, 2014
Charlie is supposed to be leaving for college with her best friend, but she's still dealing with the aftershocks of her parent's divorce and isn't sure what she wants for her future. All she knows is she doesn't want to go to college right now and that she doesn't want to get back together with her long time boyfriend Dylan.
On a whim, she takes a solo adventure to the local county fair, where she meets a boy with the most beautiful eyes she's ever seen. Everything about him is exciting and intriguing, even his name, Blue. She realizes that he's a carnie, a gypsy, someone that will probably never settle down, yet she can't help her attraction to him and does something completely against her standard behavior and sleeps with him.
Blue has traveled with his dad and the carnival for several years but finds himself wanting to stick around for the first time ever if it means being with Charlie. His cousin and uncle live in town and he decides to stay with them for awhile instead of following the carnival. And what a small world because Blue's cousin is the best friend of Dylan.
The turmoil that Charlie and Blue face as their relationship progresses is just like a wild carnival ride. The question is will their relationship be strong enough to ride out the highs and lows or will it spin out of their control.
KB Nelson did a great job in writing this debut book. I felt like I really got to know Blue and Charlie because of the chapter's alternating from one's point of view to the other and despite their unusual meeting and resulting feelings for each other, I really was rooting for them. I wasn't a huge fan of the heavy drinking and drug use that was prevalent throughout most of the book, but I do recognize that it probably would have been a whole other book had it not been a part of their story. There were definitely a few twists that I was not expecting so it made for a very interesting book and I could not put the book down, because I just had to keep going to see what was going to happen next. KB Nelson has 2 more books in the works for the Carnival series and I can't wait to see where the next rides take us.
On a whim, she takes a solo adventure to the local county fair, where she meets a boy with the most beautiful eyes she's ever seen. Everything about him is exciting and intriguing, even his name, Blue. She realizes that he's a carnie, a gypsy, someone that will probably never settle down, yet she can't help her attraction to him and does something completely against her standard behavior and sleeps with him.
Blue has traveled with his dad and the carnival for several years but finds himself wanting to stick around for the first time ever if it means being with Charlie. His cousin and uncle live in town and he decides to stay with them for awhile instead of following the carnival. And what a small world because Blue's cousin is the best friend of Dylan.
The turmoil that Charlie and Blue face as their relationship progresses is just like a wild carnival ride. The question is will their relationship be strong enough to ride out the highs and lows or will it spin out of their control.
KB Nelson did a great job in writing this debut book. I felt like I really got to know Blue and Charlie because of the chapter's alternating from one's point of view to the other and despite their unusual meeting and resulting feelings for each other, I really was rooting for them. I wasn't a huge fan of the heavy drinking and drug use that was prevalent throughout most of the book, but I do recognize that it probably would have been a whole other book had it not been a part of their story. There were definitely a few twists that I was not expecting so it made for a very interesting book and I could not put the book down, because I just had to keep going to see what was going to happen next. KB Nelson has 2 more books in the works for the Carnival series and I can't wait to see where the next rides take us.
December 26, 2014
Advanced Readers Copy (ARC) given & provided by the lovely author for an honest review THANK YOU
3.75 stars maybe 4.
Cover: 10
Plot: 6
Heroine: 4
Hero: 4
Ending: 5
I highly enjoyed this in some parts but on the other hand I didn't.
The plot is nothing I've ever read before and that was keeping my interest up. But I could hardly stand the characters who I didn't connect with. Even the second characters I couldn't connect with. If I was Charlie I would have dropped Summer as a friend
Also the book lacks detail on character descriptions. The main characters (both) had some major Jekyll and Hyde personalities which was giving me Whiplash. I disliked how the characters have sex right off the bat. It just seem so slutty and it was disgusting. He could've had some STDS.
I had a problem with the characters doing drugs in this book. It was like every single page I was reading about them doing molly. I usually don't have problems with characters doing drugs but it just didn't work with book it was too much.
I loved the romance in this book it wasn't exactly insta-love.The writing for an debut novel is awesome and I am happy with the ending within the novel which didn't leave off in a cliffhanger. I loved how sweet Blue was to Charlie even though he lied a bit.
I can't wait to see where the author takes the characters and second characters in book two. This story is must read for new adult readers.
My favorite quotes:
"His slim, rock-hard abs are like Mount Rushmore with six presidents instead of four." - Charlie
"For the first time in my life, I felt like I'm home." - Blue
"Happiness is hard to find, so I think that once you find it. You should do everything you can to hang onto it." - Blue
3.75 stars maybe 4.
Cover: 10
Plot: 6
Heroine: 4
Hero: 4
Ending: 5
I highly enjoyed this in some parts but on the other hand I didn't.
The plot is nothing I've ever read before and that was keeping my interest up. But I could hardly stand the characters who I didn't connect with. Even the second characters I couldn't connect with. If I was Charlie I would have dropped Summer as a friend
Also the book lacks detail on character descriptions. The main characters (both) had some major Jekyll and Hyde personalities which was giving me Whiplash. I disliked how the characters have sex right off the bat. It just seem so slutty and it was disgusting. He could've had some STDS.
I had a problem with the characters doing drugs in this book. It was like every single page I was reading about them doing molly. I usually don't have problems with characters doing drugs but it just didn't work with book it was too much.
I loved the romance in this book it wasn't exactly insta-love.The writing for an debut novel is awesome and I am happy with the ending within the novel which didn't leave off in a cliffhanger. I loved how sweet Blue was to Charlie even though he lied a bit.
I can't wait to see where the author takes the characters and second characters in book two. This story is must read for new adult readers.
My favorite quotes:
"His slim, rock-hard abs are like Mount Rushmore with six presidents instead of four." - Charlie
"For the first time in my life, I felt like I'm home." - Blue
"Happiness is hard to find, so I think that once you find it. You should do everything you can to hang onto it." - Blue
July 16, 2014
So I really enjoyed this book. I read that this was KB Nelson’s debut novel and there will be more books to follow.
I too have not read anything like this book based around the carnival life. Charlie is the teenage girl who goes to the Carnival in her home town one night and meets a “Carnie”, Blue, and she instantly falls for him.
“He’s Gorgeous, like a teenage Brad Pitt-tall, lean and muscular, wearing worn jeans and a white t-shirt that clings to the sweat on his sculpted chest. I stare into his eyes and I’m not going to lie, I feel the sting of Cupid’s arrow in my ass. Those beautiful blue eyes.”
Hot right?..lol How can he not sound hot and interestingly enough his name is Blue. Blue grew up in the carnival life never staying anywhere long enough to call home.
“I’ve Spent my entire life dreaming of going home, but I’ve never had a home to go home to. I’ve decided to give life away from the carnival a shot. Most people run away to the carnival. Well, I’m running away from it.”
But when he meets Charlie they seem to click and have a lot of fun together. They go through their ups and downs, sex, drugs, twists and turns in this book that I really never saw coming.
This book was a easy read, I really liked Blue, he was easy to fall in love with and funny. Charlie would get on my nerves at times but all in all I liked them. Will Blue stay with Charlie, or will the ” normal life’ versus the “Carnival life” be too much for him and he will run back to it? Well, you will have to pick this book up and see. :)
Carnival is recommended for ages 17+ for language, thematic elements and strong sexual content.
I give this book 4 Smooches! :)
Tricia
July 7, 2014
OH MY GAWWWD! Loved this book!
Funny, I started writting this and Tove Lo's Habits (Stay High) started playing on my playlist on Spotify. Ok, maybe only I get it in my weird way. Perhaps you can relate after you read this book. If you liked Beautiful Disaster, I think you will enjoy this one. Not that the story line is the same. I would just describe both of these as edgy, gritty and not all pretty.
The two main characters Charlie and Blue meet at an annual carnival in Charlie's hometown. Charlie is going through a divorce between her parents, breaking up with her boyfriend because she's going to college and dropping the plans on going to college. To get away from it all she goes to the carnival by herself to go on some rides and eat some carnival food. She meets Blue at one of the rides and it's instant attraction/lust.
This isn't the story of the perfect people or mildly troubled. So if you don't like dealing with the reality that people do drugs, drink, and have mad monkey sex I would suggest you skip this. However, if you don't mind it I would suggest you get it now! I LOVED this, I can not say it enough and I can't wait for the following two books in the series: Amusement and Neon Lights to come out. It's not like everybody is a junkie, but it's true to life that a lot of college age kids try a lot of things. Drinking and a little bit of Molly. I personally don't get into the drug thing, but have known people when they were younger that dabbled. It doesn't make them bad people, just a little more street smart then me. Anyway, I digress. Again. You. Go forth and purchase now!
Funny, I started writting this and Tove Lo's Habits (Stay High) started playing on my playlist on Spotify. Ok, maybe only I get it in my weird way. Perhaps you can relate after you read this book. If you liked Beautiful Disaster, I think you will enjoy this one. Not that the story line is the same. I would just describe both of these as edgy, gritty and not all pretty.
The two main characters Charlie and Blue meet at an annual carnival in Charlie's hometown. Charlie is going through a divorce between her parents, breaking up with her boyfriend because she's going to college and dropping the plans on going to college. To get away from it all she goes to the carnival by herself to go on some rides and eat some carnival food. She meets Blue at one of the rides and it's instant attraction/lust.
This isn't the story of the perfect people or mildly troubled. So if you don't like dealing with the reality that people do drugs, drink, and have mad monkey sex I would suggest you skip this. However, if you don't mind it I would suggest you get it now! I LOVED this, I can not say it enough and I can't wait for the following two books in the series: Amusement and Neon Lights to come out. It's not like everybody is a junkie, but it's true to life that a lot of college age kids try a lot of things. Drinking and a little bit of Molly. I personally don't get into the drug thing, but have known people when they were younger that dabbled. It doesn't make them bad people, just a little more street smart then me. Anyway, I digress. Again. You. Go forth and purchase now!
June 26, 2014
*I was given a copy by author in exchange for an honest review*
Carnival is book 1 of the Carnival Series.
Charlie is a beautiful girl, she's funny, sarcastic, and doesn't take any sh*t. But just like any other teenager she had plans to go off to college. She was all set to attend Ohio State University then at the last minute changed her mind to stay at home and take care of her depressed mother, so she says but she thinks college isn't in her future at the moment.
Blue is a hot carnie who works at the carnival. He is sweet, charming, closed off and very mysterious. The only thing he has had growing up is the carnival, no home to go to. Then he makes a choice.
“I've spent my entire life dreaming of going home, but I've never had a home to go home to. I've decided to give life away from the carnival a shot. Most people run away to the carnival. Well, I'm running away from it.”
Charlie and Blue's relationship had so much chemistry you couldn't deny what they were feeling. The sex scenes were scorching!!! There was so many twist and turns in this story that you were left on the edge of your seat wanting more! I was hooked from the very first page.
“Have you already forgotten? Home isn't in Lakeview.” I grab his hand and place it to my chest “It's right here. Always here.”
In this story you will read about love, friendship, lies, drugs, alcohol. There will also be a tragedy, your heart will be tested. I fell in love with all the characters and I can't wait to see who's story is next!
When the truth finally surfaces can all the lies be forgotten? Can you forget everything you have ever known for love?
5 Stars
~Ashley
Carnival is book 1 of the Carnival Series.
Charlie is a beautiful girl, she's funny, sarcastic, and doesn't take any sh*t. But just like any other teenager she had plans to go off to college. She was all set to attend Ohio State University then at the last minute changed her mind to stay at home and take care of her depressed mother, so she says but she thinks college isn't in her future at the moment.
Blue is a hot carnie who works at the carnival. He is sweet, charming, closed off and very mysterious. The only thing he has had growing up is the carnival, no home to go to. Then he makes a choice.
“I've spent my entire life dreaming of going home, but I've never had a home to go home to. I've decided to give life away from the carnival a shot. Most people run away to the carnival. Well, I'm running away from it.”
Charlie and Blue's relationship had so much chemistry you couldn't deny what they were feeling. The sex scenes were scorching!!! There was so many twist and turns in this story that you were left on the edge of your seat wanting more! I was hooked from the very first page.
“Have you already forgotten? Home isn't in Lakeview.” I grab his hand and place it to my chest “It's right here. Always here.”
In this story you will read about love, friendship, lies, drugs, alcohol. There will also be a tragedy, your heart will be tested. I fell in love with all the characters and I can't wait to see who's story is next!
When the truth finally surfaces can all the lies be forgotten? Can you forget everything you have ever known for love?
5 Stars
~Ashley
July 19, 2014
Charlie meets Blue at the carnival currently visiting her hometown of Lakeview, he's cute, charming and witty and she is immediately swept off her feet by him. Throughout the night of their first meeting it becomes clear Blue is a carnie, a traveller working the carnival but at the end of the night he reveals his intentions to stick around. What comes next is a whirlwind of chaotic emotions as Charlie attempts to fit Blue into her life even as it becomes clear he has a dark past that seems to be intent on coming back to haunt him.
This book took a totally different direction than I thought it was heading in. I'm rarely surprised by where a book is heading, don't get me wrong, I do enjoy the journey, but I can usually see where the author is going with the plot. This book succeeded in surprising me. It turned out to be an intense, emotional, sometimes overwhelming, heart-stopper of a story. So in case you can't guess, I freaking loved it!
On top of how original it was it was beautifully written. This author succeeded in being one of a very small number who have managed to bring a tear to my eye. I found this book to be un-put-downable, it had everything I could possibly want from a book, gripping storyline, bouts of heartbreak, fantastic characters and an author who has a true talent for the written word.
I hope the author writes more from these characters, whether it be the stories of the background characters or a continuation of Blue and Charlie's story. I would be ecstatic with either although I have to say I'd prefer the latter. I loved the ending of this book but that's just it, I didn't want it to end.
This book took a totally different direction than I thought it was heading in. I'm rarely surprised by where a book is heading, don't get me wrong, I do enjoy the journey, but I can usually see where the author is going with the plot. This book succeeded in surprising me. It turned out to be an intense, emotional, sometimes overwhelming, heart-stopper of a story. So in case you can't guess, I freaking loved it!
On top of how original it was it was beautifully written. This author succeeded in being one of a very small number who have managed to bring a tear to my eye. I found this book to be un-put-downable, it had everything I could possibly want from a book, gripping storyline, bouts of heartbreak, fantastic characters and an author who has a true talent for the written word.
I hope the author writes more from these characters, whether it be the stories of the background characters or a continuation of Blue and Charlie's story. I would be ecstatic with either although I have to say I'd prefer the latter. I loved the ending of this book but that's just it, I didn't want it to end.
June 21, 2014
I have mixed feelings about this book.
The first thing that drove me crazy is I have no idea what the characters look like. We're told they're both gorgeous and well built. Blue has blue eyes and Charlie isn't blonde, that's all I figured out.
In the beginning Charlie tells Blue she's crazy and she wasn't kidding. Her personality flips more times then a gymnast. He lies to her within minutes of meeting and continues to lie thoughout the story but says he isn't a liar.
Another one I’m the first to wake up, and I bet Summer and Blue weren’t expecting that. They lay beside me in bed wrapped around each other cuddling., this implies they was doing it on purpose so how the bleep could she not care? And why was Blue and Summer next to each other? Had this been my situation you best believe I would've been in the middle.
Summer tells Charlie what she's been up to and Charlie thinks she needs adult supervision, what exactly is different about what she's doing?
But there was something about this story I just really liked. I know one thing was there isn't instalove. They do sleep together within hrs of meeting but it does happen in life so that's easy to overlook. The story takes a turn I never saw coming that immediately made it more interesting and when it was done I wasn't sure what to think. It wasn't (at least to me that wouldn't be) a HEA but I think it was supposed to be.
If there's a sequel I'm definitely reading it.
I was given a ecopy by the author in exchange for a honest review. Thank you
The first thing that drove me crazy is I have no idea what the characters look like. We're told they're both gorgeous and well built. Blue has blue eyes and Charlie isn't blonde, that's all I figured out.
In the beginning Charlie tells Blue she's crazy and she wasn't kidding. Her personality flips more times then a gymnast. He lies to her within minutes of meeting and continues to lie thoughout the story but says he isn't a liar.
Another one I’m the first to wake up, and I bet Summer and Blue weren’t expecting that. They lay beside me in bed wrapped around each other cuddling., this implies they was doing it on purpose so how the bleep could she not care? And why was Blue and Summer next to each other? Had this been my situation you best believe I would've been in the middle.
Summer tells Charlie what she's been up to and Charlie thinks she needs adult supervision, what exactly is different about what she's doing?
But there was something about this story I just really liked. I know one thing was there isn't instalove. They do sleep together within hrs of meeting but it does happen in life so that's easy to overlook. The story takes a turn I never saw coming that immediately made it more interesting and when it was done I wasn't sure what to think. It wasn't (at least to me that wouldn't be) a HEA but I think it was supposed to be.
If there's a sequel I'm definitely reading it.
I was given a ecopy by the author in exchange for a honest review. Thank you
July 9, 2014
Sometimes the life you once thought you wanted changes right before your eyes.
I'm a little mixed on my feelings with the book. The writing is good. The storyline has it's interesting moments. My biggest problem? I couldn't connect with Charlie. She seemed...dull. I couldn't understand her feelings and why she was the way she was. She fell flat for me.
However, Blue intrigued me. He's such a mystery and I loved the aspect of not knowing much about him at first. He pulled me in. And hello...the name Blue? Yeah, I needed more on him.
There's some good dialog, an emotional change that comes later in the story that made me hurt inside for some of the characters. Then when Blue revealed his past, I was a little stunned. Then the craziness happened...whoa. Not expecting some of that.
I also felt the relationship wasn't fully believable. It wasn't built up on very well for them to say I love you to one another like they did.
Some of the situations were interesting...and each character had their quirks. I gotta say, some of the relationships and situations kinda blew my mind, because I could never see me and my friends acting like that even as a teen. I don't know, like I said I'm very torn in the middle with this story. I'd hoped for more, and it really bummed me that I couldn't/didn't connect with Charlie. I didn't know what her motivation was.
Overall, an interesting story, but the characterization could have been much stronger. I'll still look for other works by the author in the future.
I'm a little mixed on my feelings with the book. The writing is good. The storyline has it's interesting moments. My biggest problem? I couldn't connect with Charlie. She seemed...dull. I couldn't understand her feelings and why she was the way she was. She fell flat for me.
However, Blue intrigued me. He's such a mystery and I loved the aspect of not knowing much about him at first. He pulled me in. And hello...the name Blue? Yeah, I needed more on him.
There's some good dialog, an emotional change that comes later in the story that made me hurt inside for some of the characters. Then when Blue revealed his past, I was a little stunned. Then the craziness happened...whoa. Not expecting some of that.
I also felt the relationship wasn't fully believable. It wasn't built up on very well for them to say I love you to one another like they did.
Some of the situations were interesting...and each character had their quirks. I gotta say, some of the relationships and situations kinda blew my mind, because I could never see me and my friends acting like that even as a teen. I don't know, like I said I'm very torn in the middle with this story. I'd hoped for more, and it really bummed me that I couldn't/didn't connect with Charlie. I didn't know what her motivation was.
Overall, an interesting story, but the characterization could have been much stronger. I'll still look for other works by the author in the future.
June 30, 2014
***I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review***
I loved the concept of this book...falling for a carnie, it doesn't get more interesting than that. K.B. Nelson takes the whole "wrong kind of guy" to a new level.
The story is written from Charlie's point of view. Charlie is an 18 year old, high school graduate who had planned on going off to college with her best friend. But after her dad left her and her mother, her mother fell apart and Charlie took over the parent role. She decided, even though she hasn't told anyone, she feels the need to stay home and take care of her mother rather than go off to college.
One night, when most of her friends have left town, she decides to go to the carnival by herself. She meets Blue and falls for the most incredible eyes she has every seen and loses all inhibitions.
Throughout the story she learns more and more about Blue and his past. And their relationship mist withstand many tests. The story gets really interesting when Blue's past comes back to kill him and she decides to leave town and run with him so they can be together.
Its a good story and really well written but it got a little far-fetched for me. The relationship was hot and steamy and extremely well-written but the 18 year old mentality of "I am all grown up and can make good decisions" is pushed a little too far. I would definitely read more books from K.B. Nelson.
I loved the concept of this book...falling for a carnie, it doesn't get more interesting than that. K.B. Nelson takes the whole "wrong kind of guy" to a new level.
The story is written from Charlie's point of view. Charlie is an 18 year old, high school graduate who had planned on going off to college with her best friend. But after her dad left her and her mother, her mother fell apart and Charlie took over the parent role. She decided, even though she hasn't told anyone, she feels the need to stay home and take care of her mother rather than go off to college.
One night, when most of her friends have left town, she decides to go to the carnival by herself. She meets Blue and falls for the most incredible eyes she has every seen and loses all inhibitions.
Throughout the story she learns more and more about Blue and his past. And their relationship mist withstand many tests. The story gets really interesting when Blue's past comes back to kill him and she decides to leave town and run with him so they can be together.
Its a good story and really well written but it got a little far-fetched for me. The relationship was hot and steamy and extremely well-written but the 18 year old mentality of "I am all grown up and can make good decisions" is pushed a little too far. I would definitely read more books from K.B. Nelson.
July 1, 2014
Charlie has pretty much hit the point where she doesn't really know what to do with her life. She had broken up with her ex so that it makes sense when she left but now she isn't and things are just confusing right now. When the carnival rolls in town and Charlie gets more then she bargained for when she hooks up with one of the caries. The more deeper they fall for each other the more things get complicated. Trust me when it say its not going to be what you expect.
I thought that this book was going to be sweet, steamy and as good as any other NA book. This book turned out to be more and this book very much surprised me with how great it turned it. This book is unique with its twists and turned and you readers won't want to put it down. There is enough drama, steam and things that'll surprise you to keep you readers. I loved everything about this book, the writing style, the story line, the overall fast pace of the book. I liked how relate able Charlie was at different points, not everyone has their life straight knowing what they want, there is massive doubt that people go through and I feel that in a way that is one way that Charlie can be relate able. I loved blues characters he was interesting mysterious and I couldn't wait to find out more about him. I loved that there was more then one point of view. I just loved everything about this book.
I highly recommend you lovely readers to check out this book.
I thought that this book was going to be sweet, steamy and as good as any other NA book. This book turned out to be more and this book very much surprised me with how great it turned it. This book is unique with its twists and turned and you readers won't want to put it down. There is enough drama, steam and things that'll surprise you to keep you readers. I loved everything about this book, the writing style, the story line, the overall fast pace of the book. I liked how relate able Charlie was at different points, not everyone has their life straight knowing what they want, there is massive doubt that people go through and I feel that in a way that is one way that Charlie can be relate able. I loved blues characters he was interesting mysterious and I couldn't wait to find out more about him. I loved that there was more then one point of view. I just loved everything about this book.
I highly recommend you lovely readers to check out this book.
July 19, 2016
I have mixed feelings about this book, hence the 3 stars. There were parts that I really liked and parts that I didn't like at all.
*minor spoilers ahead*
I wasn't a big fan of Charlie at all. I know she's only 18, but she seems really immature. For making such a heartfelt decision to forgo college for her mom, she makes a lot of really stupid decisions throughout the story. I liked Blue even though he has a pretty scary past. He never seemed fake to Charlie and always genuine about his attraction and love for her. He was trying to better himself and get out of the lifestyle he lived while in the Carnival and I liked that about him.
I really disliked reading about all of Charlie and Blue's drug use. It just seemed unnecessary to me. The second half of the book was a giant whirlwind of action. I understand why Charlie ran away with Blue the first time but after the accident, I don't understand why they didn't stay and face the music. I guess the ending helped set up for another book to continue the story, but it just seemed a bit crazy to me.
I did like the originality of this story. I've never read anything with a plot nearly similar and liked all of the twists and turns. It definitely didn't go in the direction that I thought it would, which is always a good thing.
I would definitely read another book in the series.
*Copy provided author via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
*minor spoilers ahead*
I wasn't a big fan of Charlie at all. I know she's only 18, but she seems really immature. For making such a heartfelt decision to forgo college for her mom, she makes a lot of really stupid decisions throughout the story. I liked Blue even though he has a pretty scary past. He never seemed fake to Charlie and always genuine about his attraction and love for her. He was trying to better himself and get out of the lifestyle he lived while in the Carnival and I liked that about him.
I really disliked reading about all of Charlie and Blue's drug use. It just seemed unnecessary to me. The second half of the book was a giant whirlwind of action. I understand why Charlie ran away with Blue the first time but after the accident, I don't understand why they didn't stay and face the music. I guess the ending helped set up for another book to continue the story, but it just seemed a bit crazy to me.
I did like the originality of this story. I've never read anything with a plot nearly similar and liked all of the twists and turns. It definitely didn't go in the direction that I thought it would, which is always a good thing.
I would definitely read another book in the series.
*Copy provided author via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
July 9, 2014
Charlie had life all planned out , she was going to finish high school and graduate, dump her boyfriend Dylan and then head off to college with her best friend Summer and be roomies. However, the weeks before this was supposed to happen her life got flipped upside down and she fell head over heels with a carnie. For those who don't know , a carnie is someone who lives and breathes the carnival life. They work at the carnival and move from place to place and are often viewed as freaks or nomads. Charlie has met the most amazing and handsome boy in her life and his name is Blue and it seems that Blue has some surprises up his sleeves as this was his last carnival act and he is staying in town with his cousin Joey who we soon discover turns out to be one of Charlie's ex-boyfriend Dylan's best friends. For Charlie and Blue, it seems to be a love at first sight experience filled with danger and excitement as Charlie will experience a lot of firsts from drugs, jumping off cliffs and her first on the run with a fugitive. Carnival though is not just a happy New Adult romance story though as about halfway through , the author chucks in an edginess to the book as we discover the dark history of Blue's past and then the last five chapters or so get darker and darker with excitement, tragedies and OMG moments.
If you are looking for a new author to discover and love the thrill of reading twists and turns , then check out Carnival by K.B Nelson as it will be worth the ride.
If you are looking for a new author to discover and love the thrill of reading twists and turns , then check out Carnival by K.B Nelson as it will be worth the ride.
July 1, 2014
My thoughts: Wow, what an emotional roller coaster ride. This book started out fast, with hot and steamy scenes. A very good book that did not go in the direction that I thought. Charlie is just a small town girl with big dreams but is afraid to act on them since the divorce of her parents. With her best friend leaving for college and her ex-boyfriend still in love with her, she is at a crossroads in her life and feels like she doesn't belong anywhere. Enter Blue, the hot young carnie with whom she has an instant attraction to.
After their scandalous night together, Charlie is sure she will never see Blue again. Much to her surprise, Blue decides to stick around. Can a relationship be based solely on sex and lies survive, or is there more to this couple? What price will they pay to stay together?
I really liked this book. I was so confused by the flow of the book at times but everything fit together at the end. There were so many secrets and lies between these two that I figured there was no way they could stay together, especially with the interference of Charlies ex-boyfriend.
This book is a New Adult Book for mature readers. It has numerous references to sexual situations, language and mild drug use.
I received this book for free from Netgalley for a fair and honest review. This in no way influenced the content of my review.
After their scandalous night together, Charlie is sure she will never see Blue again. Much to her surprise, Blue decides to stick around. Can a relationship be based solely on sex and lies survive, or is there more to this couple? What price will they pay to stay together?
I really liked this book. I was so confused by the flow of the book at times but everything fit together at the end. There were so many secrets and lies between these two that I figured there was no way they could stay together, especially with the interference of Charlies ex-boyfriend.
This book is a New Adult Book for mature readers. It has numerous references to sexual situations, language and mild drug use.
I received this book for free from Netgalley for a fair and honest review. This in no way influenced the content of my review.
October 20, 2014
I was sent this book by the author for my honest opinion
First off, I have to I could not put this book down loved it that much I've I could rate it any higher I would. I look forward to reading more from K.B. Nelson. when I read the synopsis I wasn't expecting all this action book. which made it that much better. Charlie's character was so easy to relate to especially if you have growing up in a small town. And you know how small the world seem. even though in reality it's so much more bigger than you could ever expect. and blue how can you not like him, he's so different from what Charlie's used to, from his clothes, attitude and look on life. There love story adventure was of course what sparked my interest with her meeting him at the local fair. its crazy to think if it was a story about someone's life how she had been going all these years and barely meet this boy who changed her life, and completes it. It's hard not love them as a couple, even if he's supposed to be this strange mysterious bad boy. in my opinion I think people who read this will either love or hate it. only because if you come from a small town you'll understand, if you come from a fast paced city and live that life, it will be odd to understand. I wish there was more to the book as far as how what happens next. the adventure they come to live together.
First off, I have to I could not put this book down loved it that much I've I could rate it any higher I would. I look forward to reading more from K.B. Nelson. when I read the synopsis I wasn't expecting all this action book. which made it that much better. Charlie's character was so easy to relate to especially if you have growing up in a small town. And you know how small the world seem. even though in reality it's so much more bigger than you could ever expect. and blue how can you not like him, he's so different from what Charlie's used to, from his clothes, attitude and look on life. There love story adventure was of course what sparked my interest with her meeting him at the local fair. its crazy to think if it was a story about someone's life how she had been going all these years and barely meet this boy who changed her life, and completes it. It's hard not love them as a couple, even if he's supposed to be this strange mysterious bad boy. in my opinion I think people who read this will either love or hate it. only because if you come from a small town you'll understand, if you come from a fast paced city and live that life, it will be odd to understand. I wish there was more to the book as far as how what happens next. the adventure they come to live together.
June 22, 2014
Thank you to K.B. Nelson for letting me read to review this very well done book honestly. I quite enjoyed reading Carnival. The main character was sarcastic and funny and you just had to love her. The book's writing was wonderful. The words flowed together beautifully and that's a rare find in any novel. The story was great. Good girl meets bad boy, they fall in love, she gets pulled into his dark past etc, etc. There was some extreme heartbreak involved and at some points I felt my heart being torn. There were some very hot scenes between the two main characters, some action packed scenes, some scenes that made the novel all the more interesting (House of Mirrors anyone?). There were some points in the book that didn't seem very realistic to me, for example a cop dad not caring that his daughter was throwing a huge alcohol infused party before heading off to college, and I didn't like the drug parts very much. I also had som issues with the two main characters relationship because it didn't seem all that healthy, but those are personal preferences and do not take away from the integrity of the writing. Overall, I thought this novel was not like the others in its genre and I thought that it stood out. This book was definitely worth the read.
June 22, 2014
This is a hard review for me to write. I am conflicted.
First of all, this story is not for the faint of heart. Heavy drinking, drugs (using and selling), etc... (more, but I don't want to spoil!) It is an aptly named book- the whole thing is like a carnival.
Now for my split views- I liked the beginning a lot more than the middle/end. The carnival concept is new. I liked the instant chemistry between Blue and Charlie. Overall, I would say that I liked the author's style and story telling ability.
I did not like the reckless way that Charlie is living her life. It was a bit too much for me. Dropping out of college before starting, sex with a random person, binge drinking, drug use, etc.... It was a bit too much for me. She also refers to herself as a 'grown adult' and makes comments that she is no longer a kid. These references happen several times. I understand the 18 year old mentality, but it annoyed me since she clearly does not behave like an adult. Also, what terrible parents she has!
I would like the thank the author for the digital copy that I was provided in exchange for an honest review.
First of all, this story is not for the faint of heart. Heavy drinking, drugs (using and selling), etc... (more, but I don't want to spoil!) It is an aptly named book- the whole thing is like a carnival.
Now for my split views- I liked the beginning a lot more than the middle/end. The carnival concept is new. I liked the instant chemistry between Blue and Charlie. Overall, I would say that I liked the author's style and story telling ability.
I did not like the reckless way that Charlie is living her life. It was a bit too much for me. Dropping out of college before starting, sex with a random person, binge drinking, drug use, etc.... It was a bit too much for me. She also refers to herself as a 'grown adult' and makes comments that she is no longer a kid. These references happen several times. I understand the 18 year old mentality, but it annoyed me since she clearly does not behave like an adult. Also, what terrible parents she has!
I would like the thank the author for the digital copy that I was provided in exchange for an honest review.
July 4, 2014
Wow. That had way more action than I was expecting from the synopsis. And I don't just mean girl and boy action, though there was some of that too. I mean full-on action that involves blood. I don't want to give anything away so I won't say anything more about that. I may have said too much already, I hope not.
I have to say, it did take me a little while to get into the book. Charlie's 'voice' caused me some trouble at first - she has an unusual turn of phrase, and it took me a while to get a proper feel for her. Once I did though, I really liked her. She was honest and real. In fact, Nelson has been quite brave with this book in some ways. Her characters do drugs and have fun. They act like young people, make bad decisions, and aren't just there to teach us a lesson.
Carnival is a wild ride, but it's also an incredibly sweet love story. Blue and Charlie have something powerful that can't be ignored. I'm lucky enough to know what that kind of love feels like, and I know it's real. Carnival is a very original, twisty, entertaining book, and it's a true stand-alone which seems to be a rare thing at the moment. Enjoy it for what it is.
I have to say, it did take me a little while to get into the book. Charlie's 'voice' caused me some trouble at first - she has an unusual turn of phrase, and it took me a while to get a proper feel for her. Once I did though, I really liked her. She was honest and real. In fact, Nelson has been quite brave with this book in some ways. Her characters do drugs and have fun. They act like young people, make bad decisions, and aren't just there to teach us a lesson.
Carnival is a wild ride, but it's also an incredibly sweet love story. Blue and Charlie have something powerful that can't be ignored. I'm lucky enough to know what that kind of love feels like, and I know it's real. Carnival is a very original, twisty, entertaining book, and it's a true stand-alone which seems to be a rare thing at the moment. Enjoy it for what it is.
October 6, 2014
What can I say, this book was AWESOME. It didn't get me at first, I couldn't quite understand Charlie's or Blue's way of thinking in the beginning. But I understood the feeling like you need to get away and need to do something completely out of the ordinary. No matter what anyone thinks you need to be set free and do your own thing. While Charlie's and Blue's decisions aren't what you would ever do, it happens and it's nice to have the point of view in this book and live it through them. I enjoyed the entire book, it kept me in suspense and I am still shaking after reading it. It has a lot of bumpy crazy roads like real life and I just loved it. I enjoyed all the characters, and learning about each one. If you are expecting a perfect love story this isn't for you. This book isn't about the perfect love story, its more of the OMG I can't believe they did that love story, but it's love non the less and I suggest you read it. It does have drug use and bad things but thats all part of the excitement of this book. Great job and I can't wait for the next one! Thank you for sharing it with me!
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